Pierre, SD – February 8, 2011 – (RealEstateRama) — South Dakota Housing Development Authority (SDHDA) is now accepting applications for the Emergency Shelter Grants Program.
The Emergency Shelter Grants (ESG) Program, which is funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and administered by SDHDA, assists existing emergency housing shelters improve or expand their facilities and provide services.
Since the ESG Program’s inception 23 years ago, SDHDA has awarded more than $5.9 million directly to shelters statewide. SDHDA anticipates $350,000 will be available for the ESG Program in FY11.
“These funds can be used to renovate or rehabilitate emergency housing shelters. They can also be used for maintenance, operating costs, and activities for homeless prevention in our state,” said Executive Director, Mark Lauseng. “The ESG Program has been a valuable resource in assisting emergency housing shelters.”
While it is difficult to get an absolute account of the homeless, a 2010 survey reported there were more than 1,720 homeless people in South Dakota. Most of the homeless were white, single males between the ages 13-55. However, all races, genders and ages are subject to homelessness.
The ESG Program is one of several sources designated to reduce homelessness throughout our state.
The ESG Program application is available on SDHDA’s website at www.sdhda.org
For more information on the ESG Program, please e-mail Lisa Bondy at lisab (at) sdhda (dot) org, or call 605.773.3181.
Applications must be received by March 1, 2011, at 5:00 p.m. (CST). Project selection will be made on or before May 31, 2011.
Contact:
Mark Lauseng, Executive Director
605.773.3181
